Chapter 5 – Managing the Test Activities
Test Manager – ISTQB Definition
Last Updated: July 12, 2026 · SoftwareTestPilot QA Team
Official ISTQB Definition
The person responsible for project management of testing activities, resources and evaluation of a test object.
In simple words
Owns test planning, staffing, budget and reporting for a project or release.
Exam tip
Manager owns the plan and reports; lead owns the technical work — a favourite CTFL exam distinction.
Related terms
- Test LeadThe senior tester who coordinates work, mentors the team, and interfaces with dev leads and PMs.
- Test PlanningDeciding scope, objectives, risks, resources, schedule and criteria for a testing effort.
- Test ReportThe write-up that tells stakeholders how testing went and whether the product is ready to ship.
Practice this term in the ISTQB Mock Test
40 CTFL v4.0 questions, 60-minute timer, instant scoring and chapter-wise breakdown.
Practice in Mock Test